Revision or secondary rhinoplasty is the facial plastic surgery procedure performed to correct problems resulting from previous rhinoplasty surgery. The most common and most challenging need for revision rhinoplasty occurs when too much tissue was removed at the previous surgery.

For most rhinoplasty patients problems are minor and can be handled by the original plastic surgeon. The revision rate for rhinoplasty even in the best of hands is between 5-10%. In the event a major deformity it may be better to pursue your second surgery with an experienced facial plastic surgeon in revision rhinoplasty such as Dr. Benjamin Light.

Board Certified by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Dr. Benjamin Light has over 10 years experience in revision rhinoplasty as well as many other facial plastic surgery procedures.

Revision Rhinoplasty challenges

When surgery is performed the second or third time, it is usually much more complex than the original surgical procedure. The natural anatomy of the nose has been reshaped, cartilage has been removed and breathing may be altered. The nasal structure will usually be encased in scar tissue as a result of a previous surgery or surgeries. During a revision rhinoplasty surgery the normal structures will be resculpted.

Often there is a need to rebuild the structure of the nose and therefore pieces of cartilage either from the nasal septum, ear or rib are sometimes required. Some surgeons prefer to use implants such as synthetic materials in a revision rhinoplasty. Some of the more common materials used include gortex, medpore and hard silicone.

Dr. Light’s general philosophy is to always use the patient’s own cartilage if it is available. However, some patients require an implant or injectable in a revision rhinoplasty. Some of the injectable fillers used to fill in small defects left after rhinoplasty include Restylane®, Artecoll® and Radiesse®.

To find out if you are a good candidate for revision rhinoplasty, request a consultation with Dr. Benjamin Light. For more information contact Decatur, Alabama area Renaissance Facial Plastic Surgery center today for a consultation 1-866-239-FACE (3223).